Security Information

Please reference the NIH visitor's map to locate visitor entrances, visitor parking, and the Clinical Center as well as other pertinent details.

Visitors may access the NIH campus through one of two visitor centers—the NIH Gateway Center at the Metro entrance (Rockville Pike and South Drive) or the West Visitor Center at Old Georgetown Road and South Drive. The Gateway Center is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The West Visitor Center will be open M-F, 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. except for federal holidays and is available for pedestrians only.

Visitors will be asked to show one form of valid government-issued photo identification and to state the purpose of their visit in order to receive a visitor’s pass. Examples of acceptable identification include: driver’s license, passport, military ID, other government agency IDs, green cards.

Additional NIH visitor information

Please note: visitor parking is limited at NIH. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation such as the Metrorail subway system which has a convenient stop (Medical Center) on the NIH campus. Visit the "Metro" site for information on fares and schedules http://www.wmata.com/.

Visitor vehicles will undergo security screening at the Metro entrance. Be sure to allow extra time for the vehicle inspection procedure.
Visitors must park in designated visitor parking lots (see visitor access map). Vehicles will be inspected prior to parking in underground or multi-level garages.

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